forward. they want to know what the president will do over the course of the next four years. >> reporter: with polls showing mr. obama leading in the swing states top aides encouraged the president to be himself, don't change what's working one senior adviser said. for his part romney's advisers say he's prepared, that he just needs to convey his message clearly on the biggest stage of his political career. and throughout the primary debates, brian, mitt romney would write his father's name, george romney on the top of his notepad, his father being his inspiration. he'd write "o" to remind him to focus on plb president obama. but tonight he probably won't need any reminders. >> peter alexander, thanks. >>> now over to our political director and chief white house correspondent chuck todd also at that time venue tonight. chuck, what's the task for both sides, for both men? >> reporter: well, i can tell you that both campaigns view it this way. the candidate that's spent more time litigating the other guy's plans will feel as if they're winning. the campaign that feels like spe